Teddy Riner is set to resume training after elbow surgery, aiming for the LA 2028 Olympics, which will be his sixth and final Games. Having already achieved immense success with two gold medals at Paris 2024, he is determined to prepare meticulously for LA, emphasizing the importance of gradual training and competition.

Teddy Riner, the renowned judo champion, is poised to return to the sport following an injury. The French judoka underwent surgery on his right elbow at the start of 2025, marking a recovery period after his stellar performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he secured two gold medals. Riner plans to commence training in mid-March 2025, starting with weight training on March 10 and then progressing to full training by the following week.

In an interview with L’Equipe, Riner stated, “The medical staff is happy but I need to continue with the rehabilitation to rebuild my triceps, because it has melted. I have nothing else to treat, my elbow was the main thing. To be honest, we are all good!”

As a five-time Olympic champion, Riner has solidified his status as the most decorated judoka in Olympic history, with seven medals including gold in both the men’s +100kg category and the mixed team event at Paris 2024. The 35-year-old athlete has set his sights on the LA 2028 Olympic Games, marking his sixth Olympic appearance and reflecting on a two-decade journey since his debut in Beijing 2008, where he won bronze.

Riner expressed, “There won’t be an after! You guys leave me alone! I will have reached my limit and I will have enjoyed it until the last drop.” He defined his drive as stemming from three motivations: the desire to experience the thrill of Olympic competition again, the ambition to fight for two medals, and the excitement surrounding the LA Olympics.

He added, “What’s important is to prepare well for LA 2028, meaning that we won’t repeat the same mistakes when we stepped into the tournament last minute. This time, we’re going to build. We’re going to compete very early, gradually and aim for one competition every two to three months.”

In conclusion, Teddy Riner is on the road to recovery and looks forward to competing in the LA 2028 Olympic Games. His commitment to training and preparation is evident, as he emphasizes the importance of gradual competition to avoid past mistakes. With a strong motivation to end his extraordinary judo career on a high note, Riner aims to make his final Olympic appearance memorable.

Original Source: www.olympics.com

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